🔐 Top 8 API Pentesting Tools Every Developer & Security Pro Should Know

APIs are increasingly vulnerable, posing significant security risks for applications. Gartner reports that APIs have larger attack surfaces than UIs in 90% of web-enabled applications. Common API vulnerabilities include broken authentication, injection attacks, misconfigured headers, and unsecured endpoints. Attackers often bypass UIs and target APIs directly, as exemplified by the Freepik data breach. This article highlights eight API penetration testing tools to address these security concerns. These tools range from cloud-based AI-powered solutions like ZeroThreat to open-source options like OWASP ZAP and manual testing tools such as Burp Suite. The tools offer varied features, including static and dynamic analysis, sensitive data detection, and integration with CI/CD pipelines. Choosing the right tool depends on factors like API type, CI/CD needs, testing depth, compliance requirements, and authentication methods. Combining automated and manual tools is often beneficial for comprehensive testing. Proactive API security testing is crucial to prevent costly breaches and maintain application security. Investing in appropriate tools is essential for securing applications and protecting sensitive data.